Haslingden is not short of places to get a pizza

DO people in Haslingden never cook their own meals?

Obviously, I know the answer, but still find it bemusing there is apparently a need for yet another takeaway in the town. When Domino’s Pizza said they wanted to take over the old Natwest building – after it had been a discount store for a brief period of time – there was plenty of opposition.

At last count there were 30 takeaways and eateries in and around Haslingden town centre.

The one thing the town is not short of is places to get a pizza.

I suspect you have to walk further between places selling pizza in Venice than you do in Haslingden.

It’s been an issue people have been complaining about since 2007 at least – and when the Domino’s application came through, Coun Ann Kenyon, a Haslingden councillor, said there was a ‘no more takeaways policy’ for Haslingden. Good. Action. People being listened to.

Although the Domino’s plan is now earmarked for approval by council officers.

I know planning officers often have their hands tied on what can and can’t be approved, but Rossendale council has made it quite clear it is going to support residents in their efforts to improve Haslingden – and that surely means finding a way to stop yet another takeaway opening.

Haslingden deserves better.

Councillors have promised better.